[Sharon]

Explain how you would normally describe your role as a nurse and post to the online discussion forum.

[Samantha]

In my current role as a Manager in LTC I would describe my role as one that provides support, leads and sets the example for professional behavior, knowledge and critical thinking. As part of the care team, I want to fully engage with nurses to understand their challenges, questions and opportunities for improvement, not only for the best resident outcomes but also for the staff to feel fulfilled and satisfied with their work. When scope is better understood, there can be a much better appreciation for individuals on the care team.

Attachments:

You must be logged in to view attached files.

[Kirandip]

After reflecting on the research results and my activity results, I was surprised that I also learnt that the Controlled Acts apply equally to RPNs and RNs. As shared on page 16 of the “It’s all about Synergies” report by Lankshear and Rush (2014), “As for awareness of the controlled acts for nursing, the majority of respondents across all categories had moderate to low levels of agreement with the statement “The RPN can perform the same controlled acts as the RN,” with responses ranging from 48% (Nursing Faculty) to 30.4% (RN).”This was a learning experience for myself like the participants also, because whilst I was aware of what controlled acts RPNs were authorized to perform and under what conditions (and recent changes), I thought this was unequal to RNs. But as further explained on page 31 of the “It’s all about Synergies” report by Lankshear and Rush (2014), “The controlled acts authorized to Nursing apply equally to RPNs and RNs. An RN or RPN may perform a procedure within the controlled acts authorized to nursing if it is prescribed by a physician, dentist, chiropodist, midwife, or NP; or if it is initiated by an RPN or RN in accordance with conditions identified in the regulation (CNO, 2011b). “.

[Megan]

As Care Coordinator in a Home and Community Care Program, I describe my role as a multipurpose role. I am a front line nurse assisting with wound care, IV antibiotics, assessments, and personal care when needed. I also assist with Palliative Care. I also coordinate care hours for the clients and assist with referrals and assist clients with system navigation throughout the health care system and assist clients at their appointments to understand what is going on with their health. As a part of a multidisciplinary team, I continue to ensure that I work alongside the PSW and ensure I am fully engaged with them and the clients as well. Continuing to understand their questions and concerns. I ensure that I am educating the clients and their PSW as well. I do feel though, once the scope of the RPN is fully understood the position will be much more appreciated, with the added responsibilities, but same wage the underappreciation is seen.

[Babita]

In my current role working with high risk adults in a clinic setting, my abilities and experiences has allowed me to demonstrate my knowledge skill and judgement as a RPN. I have been able to express my needs and feelings about my role to employer. I am able to work within my scope to the fullest.

[Author]

Posts